The Swiss Family Robinson

Over the past year I have been reading old and new children's books to create a list of approved books for (if it is the Lord's will) my future children. The Swiss Family Robinson written by Johann David Wyss was first published in 1812. I grew up watching the movie and never had read the book until earlier this year. It is a delightful and adventurous story of a Swiss family who shipwrecked in the East Indies and must survive by themselves. What I loved about it was the dynamics of the family. Later I learned, it was written by a Swiss pastor who wanted to teach his sons about family values, good husbandry, and the uses of the natural world. No wonder I loved it! Few children's books today mention God or even have a stable family structure. Even though it is a little unrealistic (too Utopian), there are plenty of little lessons of life throughout it. This book would appeal to boys as well as girls. Would make an exciting nighttime read-aloud.